Re: [DML] New Speaker Install...Save original car

["Walter Coe" <Whalt@xxxx>]

Kevin,

Nice work on the speakers. I'm planning a similar project and have some
comments on your methods and some ideas for other people doing a similar
project.

You choice of plywood was not the best. There are reasons why speaker
enclosures are generally made out of that cheap nasty looking
sawdust/particle board. The great looks of the outer plies on plywood are
not an indication of what is sandwiched inside. Even though particle board
is cheap, it has no voids or loose edges to rattle internally.

Another material to consider is "music board". It is a very high grade of
plywood specifically made for speakers & musical instruments.

I would have placed the speakers further apart for better stereo separation.
If I do the same sort of project, I'm wondering if it would help to angle
the top of the board forward to give more air space behind the speakers.
Then I would mount the speakers higher on the panel to take advantage of
this space. I understand that this sort of space is essential for good
quality sound. Tilting the panel forward would still provide approximately
the same shelf space on the bottom.

I would like to know your opinion on how mounting speakers in this location
affects engine noise. I understand that the OEM panel is supposed to have
a lot insulation behind it for this reason. I seem to always be aware of
the a/c compressor clicking on & off, so anything I could do to attenuate
that would be a plus.

Walt Tampa, FL